There are certain eating disorders that are most frequently associated with what are known as purging behaviors — the act of quickly ridding the body of the food it had consumed in the hope of preventing weight gain.
Most commonly seen in association with bulimia nervosa, but also sometimes a side effect of anorexia, it presents numerous problems for those who practice it, physically, mentally and even emotionally.
What is purging?
Purging behaviors are typically used as a means of compensating for eating, particularly following episodes of binge eating, where an individual consumes large quantities of food in a short period of time. The primary goal of purging is to prevent weight gain or to alleviate feelings of guilt and anxiety one may feel after binge eating episodes.
Common purging methods include:
- Self-induced vomiting — Perhaps the most recognized form of purging, individuals may induce vomiting after meals to rid their bodies of calories consumed;
- Excessive exercise — Some individuals may engage in extreme physical activity as a way to “burn off” calories and prevent weight gain;
- Laxative abuse —The misuse of laxatives to force the body to expel food quickly and reduce calorie absorption is another common purging behavior;
- Diuretic use — Some may turn to diuretics to eliminate water weight, believing this will help them achieve a desired body image.
Purging can lead to severe mental and physical health consequences that decrease quality of life and mental peace overall.
Why do purging behaviors occur?
The motivations behind purging behaviors are often complex, with more than one factor playing a role in why an individual pursues these behaviors.
Individuals may seek out purging as a result of:
- Issues with body image — Societal pressures and unrealistic standards of beauty can lead to distorted self-image and a relentless pursuit of thinness;
- Emotional distress — Many use food as a coping mechanism for emotional pain, turning to purging when guilt or anxiety arises post-eating
- Perfectionism — A desire for control and perfection can drive individuals to resort to extreme measures to manage their weight and body shape.
It is vitally important that proper avenues for addressing mental stress be pursued so that purging behaviors do not arise as a distorted self-help method or coping strategy.
The dangers of purging
Despite the perceived short-term benefits, purging behaviors carry severe health risks that can have lasting consequences. Not only does the body suffer from these habits, but one’s well being and overall quality of life may also see a significant decrease.
Risks to one’s physical health include:
- Electrolyte imbalance – Self-induced vomiting can lead to electrolyte imbalances, which can cause serious complications such as heart arrhythmias, muscle weakness and, in severe cases, cardiac arrest;
- Gastrointestinal damage – Frequent vomiting can damage the esophagus, leading to conditions such as esophagitis, ulcers and tears in the esophagus, which can be life-threatening. Additionally, laxative abuse can result in chronic constipation, bowel obstruction and dependency on laxatives for normal bowel function;
- Dental erosion – The acidity from vomit can erode dental enamel, leading to cavities, tooth sensitivity and gum disease. This dental damage can be irreversible and may require extensive dental work;
- Dehydration – Purging behaviors can lead to severe dehydration, which can impact overall bodily functions and lead to kidney damage.
The psychological challenges that purging behaviors may cause include:
- Mental health disorders – Individuals engaging in purging behaviors are often at a higher risk for developing additional mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, depression and substance abuse problems. The cycle of bingeing and purging can create a persistent state of shame and guilt, further decreasing one’s mental health;
- Isolation – The secretive nature of purging behaviors can lead to social withdrawal. Individuals may avoid social situations involving food, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can compound existing emotional distress.
The potential long-term health consequences may include:
- Chronic health problems – Prolonged engagement in purging behaviors can lead to long-term health complications, including osteoporosis, hormonal imbalances and infertility. The cumulative effects can significantly diminish quality of life and lead to chronic health conditions that require ongoing medical intervention;
- Risk of mortality – The combination of physical and psychological consequences associated with purging behaviors can lead to a heightened risk of premature death. Eating disorders, particularly those involving purging, have one of the highest mortality rates among mental health disorders.
For these reasons, it is important to pursue the proper avenues of treatment if you have found yourself struggling with purging, regardless of the cause.
Curious about recovery options?
If you are ready to pursue treatment for an eating disorder, including those characterized by purging, Seeds of Hope is here to help.
